Temporary car insurance based on the VIN: Is that possible?
In most cases, you take out car insurance based on your car’s license plate number. In addition, standard car insurance has a one-year term, after which it can be renewed or canceled. However, there may be situations where you do not yet have a license plate but need to drive a car. This is the case, for example, when you import a car from abroad. You must have the car inspected by the RDW before you receive a Dutch license plate. However, you are not allowed to drive on public roads without a license plate, which means you cannot drive to the inspection location either. In that case, you can take out temporary auto insurance based on the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Why get temporary auto insurance based on the chassis number?
If you import a car from abroad, you must first have it inspected by the RDW before you can obtain a Dutch license plate. Even if you drive the car to an RDW inspection station, it must be insured. You must therefore first purchase temporary auto insurance. Temporary auto insurance is valid for either 1 or 15 days. If you need to go to the RDW inspection, you can purchase the 1-day policy. If you plan to export the vehicle, you can choose the 15-day coverage. During these 15 days, you can drive your car worry-free throughout Europe. After 15 days, the coverage automatically expires.
How does insurance based on the chassis number work?
A chassis number is a unique code used to identify your vehicle. The number is engraved on the car’s chassis/frame—hence the name—although it is also sometimes referred to as a frame number or vehicle identification number (VIN). This number ensures that the many cars on the road worldwide can be distinguished from one another. The chassis number is therefore not linked to your auto insurance policy, but to your car. The chassis number is also linked to your vehicle registration certificate. Because the number is unique, you can take out temporary auto insurance with some insurers based on your car’s chassis number. This is useful, for example, if you’re importing a car. In the event of an accident or damage, the insurer can use the VIN to verify that the vehicle in question is indeed the insured one.
Where can I insure a car using the VIN?
Not every insurer offers temporary auto insurance based on the VIN. We currently do not have any options for this through Alpina either. Do you already have auto insurance? If so, you can check with your current insurer to see if it’s possible to insure the new car with them using the VIN. If that’s not the case, there are a number of other insurers you can turn to. Your insurer may be able to help you find the right option,
Do you have any questions about taking out a (temporary) auto insurance policy? Please don’t hesitate to contact us! Our insurance specialists are happy to help you with any questions you may have. They are available by phone Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 088 – 688 3700. You can also ask your question via chat, WhatsApp, or Messenger at any time.
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